The effects of bottlebrush network architecture and poroelasticity on snap-through instabilities

In the natural world, numerous organisms have evolved mechanisms for rapid energy release, characterized as Latch Mediated Spring Actuation (LaMSA). These systems often rely on complex interactions between material properties and environmental factors. Our research focuses on poroelasticity and solvent transport within PDMS bottlebrush networks, exploring how these factors influence the mechanical behavior and actuation properties of these materials. We investigate the interplay between solvent diffusion, network structure, and mechanical response, emphasizing the role of poroelastic effects in controlling deformation and actuation. Initial findings reveal critical relationships between solvent transport dynamics, the elastic properties of the bottlebrush architecture, and the resultant mechanical behavior. This work advances our understanding of polymer-environment interactions and enhances the potential for designing responsive materials by manipulating poroelasticity and solvent transport phenomena.